Notebook security can be classified in to these;
Physical Security

1.    Use cable lock to securely lock your Notebook with desk or table when you are away.
2.    Record your notebook Serial number and manufacturing info separately. Register the notebook on manufacturer’s website.
3.    If leaving the notebook in public places make sure its locked/logout/shutdown.
4.    Consider a fingerprint security when you had to login in front of public.
5.    If you leaving the notebook in car make sure its kept out of sight.
6.    Carry your notebook in a professional backpack rather carrying in an ordinary notebook bag.
Operating System Security

1.    Always use lengthy mixed character passwords for your windows. Other than windows passwords you can even put passwords for BIOS and Hard Disk. Notebooks likes Sony, IBM provides such high security options.
2.    Disable Guest account and rename the default administrator account. ( Do not rename it to Admin)
3.    Disable the last login user from appearing on the login screen
4.    Do not use any tools which can remember your internet browser passwords.
5.    Allow the operating system updated with latest patches.
6.    Do not install any 3rd party softwares which can start unknown services and open unwanted holes.
Network Security and Secured Connectivity

1.    Load industry standard Antivirus and Security software also keep the Antivirus updated with latest patches.
2.    Keep the windows firewall on and consider good client firewall software.
3.    Use VPN protections when connecting to secured networks from unsecured public networks.
4.    While connected to a public Wi-Fi make sure the firewall is turned on to block un-authorized access.

Data Security

1.    Backup and synchronize your data on a regular basis.
2.    Use encrypting file system services to encrypt your hard disk data Also consider a full disk encryption tool.
3.    Consider an external hard drive, DVD, or flash drive while you travel for offline backup.
4.    Consider remote hard disk wiping services in case of stolen notebook to stop access to the hard disk data.

Learning linux is pretty complicated is n’t it? But let me introduce you to couple of free guides which are really helped me to learn Linux. I found these guide very handy for a beginner who wants to learn Linux. These guides are really teaching you how to install various Linux operating system and basic desktop operations, but from my experience I would say learn the command line operation as it will give you a foundation to Linux administration.

	This guide is from tuxradara forum which carry out discussionrelated open-source. Its featuring the Ubuntu flavor of Linux which is teaching you how to install, editing pictures, downloading torrents, burning discs, reading your emails and so on.Free download Link
	This is also featuring Ubuntu Linux but discussing more advanced features of Ubuntu including command line operation.This is also featuring Ubuntu Linux but discussing more advanced features of Ubuntu including command line operation Free download Link
	This guide is from linux-books.usits featuring the Suse Linux. Its focusing more on installation and administration.Free download Link
	This is purely focused on the command line operation of Linux. This guide is prepared in very detailed format which can give you in depth knowledge of Linux architecture and advanced command line operations. Free download Link

Feel free to share if you find any more resources.